ABU 2025/2026 academic session begins January

Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, has made it official. The 2025/2026 academic session is set to begin, and the message is clear for both fresh and returning students. It is time to get ready.

The announcement came through a special bulletin released on Friday, 2 January 2026. University management confirmed that academic activities will kick off on Monday, 5 January 2026, following the approved academic calendar.

Registration starts first

From Monday, 5 January, the university registration portal will be open. Students are expected to complete their registration within the stated period. No delays encouraged. Once the portal opens, the clock starts ticking.

This applies to undergraduate and postgraduate students alike. New intakes and those already in the system are all covered.

Lectures follow a week later

Lectures are scheduled to begin on Monday, 12 January 2026. That gives students one week to sort out registration issues, payments, and basic arrangements before classes begin.

It sounds simple. Still, that one week can disappear fast if students wait too long.

Accommodation applications

Students planning to stay in the hostels should take note. The accommodation portal will also open on Monday, 5 January 2026.

Bed spaces are limited. Applications are handled on the portal, so early action matters here. Waiting it out usually does not end well.

Guidance for NELFund applicants

Students who applied for support through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, known as NELFund, are advised to proceed with fee payments to meet registration deadlines.

University management has stated that any student in this category will receive a refund once the loan funds are released. That reassurance is meant to keep registration moving without hold-ups.

It may feel uncomfortable paying first. Still, the university is clear on this step.

Screening for new students

Screening for newly admitted students will continue at the same time as registration and lectures. There is no separate window for it.

Fresh students should prepare all required documents early. Trying to juggle screening, registration, and lectures at once can get messy if left till the last minute.

What students should keep in mind

The 2025/2026 session is starting on schedule. That is the main takeaway. Anyone studying at ABU should plan ahead, watch the dates closely, and avoid unnecessary rush.

A little preparation now saves a lot of stress later. Not perfect advice, just honest.